“No one actually realises the intensity that we even train at and you’ve got to get up to that. I couldn’t believe it when I got here.

“But I was happy to get the move, it was the move I wanted. It took a while but I’ve found my feet and want to kick on.

“It would be great to end the season with a trophy.

“To only be here four months and get a trophy would be ideal. Then we could push on next year.”

The Dubliner has already faced today’s opponents Cork City in Dundalk colours.

Connolly showed his blinding pace to set up Robbie Benson’s equaliser in September’s 1-1 draw.

And, having been switched from the left wing to the right by manager Stephen Kenny, he believes he can cause the champions more trouble at the Aviva Stadium. Connolly added: “It’s a massive pitch. With my pace, it’s ideal for now.